Senior Communications Officer

The post holder will be an integral part of the communications team responsible for supporting the delivery of an effective internal and external communications service to support Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT) in the delivery of its vision, goals and objectives.

This post covers the whole range of communications functions, providing the opportunity to be involved in all aspects of work.

Work will include producing engaging copy for a range of internal and external audiences; identifying proactive media opportunities to promote Trust activity and handling reactive media enquiries; managing daily social media content; creating visually appealing marketing materials such as posters and leaflets; developing and updating content on the HDFT website and Trust intranet; and capturing and editing photos and video. Activity will see the post holder engaging with colleagues from all levels. The post holder will have responsibility for supporting junior members of the team in their work.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious person who wants to make a real difference. We're looking for a true all-rounder who is confident and has demonstrable experience.

The Senior Communications Officer will play a pivotal role in providing communications expertise across the organisation both internally and externally.

Working closely with the Communications and Marketing Manager and Communications Assistant, the post holder will support and manage a wide range of communications activity including internal and external communications (media and stakeholder relations), digital communications, campaigns, events and projects.

The post holder will also have the opportunity to assist in the development of communications plans, liaising with senior colleagues to develop appropriate strategies that support local communications and engagement, and identify positive Trust activity, good practice and case studies for use in corporate communications.

A proactive attitude and the ability to build positive relationships with teams and individuals internal and external to the organisation, including journalists, is paramount.

At Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust we provide outstanding care to both our patients and our staff. We support staff through benefits, health and wellbeing initiatives and opportunities for personal and professional development.
- An inclusive and supportive culture our Trust encourages staff to bring their whole selves to work and active Staff Networks identify areas for improvement.
- Staff Recognition - as well as regular appraisals, we recognise staff with our Making a Difference, Team of the Month Awards & Colleague Recognition Awards
- Employee Support and wellbeing - we have a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, counselling service and fast track physiotherapy service for employees.
- Staff Benefits - We have a range of staff benefits and schemes to support staff health, engagement, wellbeing and inclusion.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to raise awareness of the Trust to a wide range of audiences in order that the Trust can market and promote its services effectively.
- Research, write, edit and produce a range of internal and external communications materials including proactive and reactive press releases and statements; newsletters; leaflets; posters; brochures; patient information; briefings; social media content; website content, intranet content, etc.
- Develop and maintain processes and procedures that underpin the efficient running of the communications team.
- Commission and brief design and print contractors in the production of communications materials, ensuring projects meet budget constraints.
- Support the Communications and Marketing Manager in the delivery of the Communications and Marketing Strategy.
- Develop and implement communications plans for key events and campaigns in line with organisational objectives.
- Advise staff and colleagues of the uses of the NHS corporate identity and use of the Trust’s branding guidelines.
- Liaise with the media and co-ordinate news and documentary filming/radio opportunities, ensuring Trust policies and protocols are adhered to, and ensuring recorded content supports the strategic aim to develop public confidence in the Trust and the NHS.
- Respond efficiently and in a timely manner to media requests, where necessary, drawing on information on colleagues to ensure accuracy at all times.
- Assisting with responding to highly sensitive and potentially damaging reputational issues as they arrive (such as media requests on major issues).
- Provide advice and support to staff around all aspects of media in particular the use of social and digital media.
- Monitor and evaluate the Trust’s media relations and social media activity producing regular reports and information on content, tone and progress.
- Provide communications and media support as required in the event of a maj